Originally published in 1650 under the title of The English dancing master, this work went through numerous editions from 1652 to 1728. Compiled by John Playford (1623-1687), a publisher of music books, the treatise is considered an important work on English country dances, a form of dance where couples perform a series of set patterns. In this tenth edition, Henry Playford notes that he has made corrections and added several new dances and tunes. The work utilizes a rudimentary dance notation and page one of the treatise is devoted to an explanation of the symbols. Part one contains 215 dances; part two has 46 dances and additional music for "A new spanish entry and saraband," as danced by Monsieur L'Abbe. Appropriate music, in the form of a treble line, is provided for each dance. Most of the dances are designated for longways sets of three couples, four couples, or "as many as will.

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